For Survivors of Maternal Verbal, Emotional, and Physical Child Abuse
Trauma survivors: I’m Carol Ann Lapeyrouse, a survivor of maternal emotional and physical child abuse. That experience led me to my work as a trauma memoirist and mental health writer. Before that, I spent many years as an information developer (technical writer) in Silicon Valley’s software development and semiconductor equipment industries.
I share these blog posts to remind you that you’re not alone. My blog, Behind the Curtain, aims to inform, encourage, and offer hope. I write from lived experience and ongoing recovery, offering reflection and insight for others navigating the effects of maternal child abuse. You’re welcome to share your thoughts.
I’m not a therapist, psychologist, psychiatrist, or mental health provider. I don’t offer professional advice. Instead, I’m one of the millions of survivors, reaching out my hand so you don’t have to walk this path alone.
For stories on various subjects across different publications, follow me on Medium.com, an open platform where readers find dynamic thinking and expert and undiscovered voices can share their writing on any topic.
Blog Posts
Recent blog posts include the following topics as they relate to child abuse and recovery:
Download Free Healing Document
Complete the fields below and submit this form to download and print from the downloaded version your free copy of “Understanding and Healing from Your Unloving or Abusive Mother.” This document describes how trauma passes to you, whether by your mother, genes, or both. It defines the difference between an unloving and abusive mother, as well as emphasizes the importance of understanding your trauma and providing steps to heal.
Carol Ann’s Corner
Support Mental Health for All
May 2026 is Mental Health Awareness Month. NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) proclaims that no matter where you are on your mental health journey–and regardless of your diagnosis, appearance, socioeconomic status, background, or ability–you are inherently worthy of life, love, and healing.
Mental Health America (MHA) is the nation’s leading nonprofit dedicated to promoting the mental health and well-being of all people living in the U.S.
Mental Health America Conference 2026 | October 8-9, Washington, DC | Register today. Calendar of National Mental Health Observances and suggested resources.
SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
World Mental Health Day 2026. A global day of awareness led by the World Health Organization (WHO). Observed annually on October 10.
World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Violence – November 18 annually.
Estrangement Expert: Joshua Coleman Ph.D.
Safe & Sound – A San Francisco nonprofit that is building a future without child abuse.
Wannatalkaboutit.com: a site Netflix launched last summer to address topics ranging from sexual violence, abuse, mental health and well-being to self-harm and suicide. The site complements their films and series, providing people with information, videos, downloadable guides, and nonprofit helplines.